National Character Counts Week, 2003
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation

Many of our society's most cherished values, such as equal
treatment for fellow citizens and respect for the law, depend in
practice on individual character. During National Character Counts
Week, we recognize the importance that good character has played in our
history, celebrate the great character exhibited by our citizens, and
reaffirm our commitment to promoting the values that will ensure a
better future for all.

Throughout history, we see numerous examples of character in
action. Great social reformers like Harriet Tubman, Frederick
Douglass, and Susan B. Anthony demonstrated courage and resolve when
they stood firm in the face of injustice and acted to right societal
wrongs. Similarly, leaders like Abraham Lincoln, Franklin Roosevelt,
and Ronald Reagan were able to guide our Nation through critical
periods because of their strong personal convictions and sense of moral
clarity. Today, these and other heroes of history inspire us to pursue
virtue and character in our own lives.

Since the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001, we have seen the
great character of our Nation in the hearts and souls of our citizens
and soldiers, and in many acts of bravery, sacrifice, kindness, and
generosity. To sustain this spirit and continue to improve our
society, we must promote a culture of service, citizenship, and
responsibility in our Nation. Through the USA Freedom Corps, my
Administration is offering opportuni-ties for citizens to give back to
their communities, helping millions of Americans in need.

The development of character and citizenship has always been a
primary goal of America's schools. Today, it is more important than
ever that we educate our young people to be knowledgeable,
compassionate, and involved citizens of a free society. Since 2002, 47
State education agencies and local school districts have received
grants to implement character education programs. These grants help
schools work with students, parents, and community organizations to
effectively teach universal values such as respect, honesty, and
tolerance. By teaching these values to our children, and living by
them in our own lives, we can build a future of hope, compassion, and
opportunity for all.

NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States
of America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution
and laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim October 19 through
October 25, 2003, as National Character Counts Week. I call upon
public officials, educators, librarians, parents, students, and all the
people of the United States to observe this week with appropriate
ceremonies, activities, and programs.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this eighteenth day
of October, in the year of our Lord two thousand three, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and
twenty-eighth.